Lake Havasu is known as one of the top boating destinations in the United States. As such, boating safety is taken very seriously on Lake Havasu. The Lake Havasu Marine Association (LHMA) was recently awarded the Hollister Award in recognition of its outstanding service in the field of boating safety by individuals or groups (public or private) by the Western States’ Boating Administrator Association.
“Clearly the LHMA has made a positive impact to recreational boating safety in the Lake Havasu area and they are to be commended,” said Kevin Bergersen, State Boating Law Administrator for the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
Among many of the LHMA programs, the Designated Operator program is one of its most visible. The program was created to raise awareness of the importance of having a sober boat operator in order to reduce alcohol-related boating accidents and fatalities.
While it can be fun to enjoy a day out on the lake sipping an adult beverage of your choice, this does NOT apply to the operator of the boat! Much like the Designated Driver of a car, the Designated Operator is responsible for driving the boat safely and responsibly.
What if your entire group wants to enjoy a few cold ones out on the boat? No problem. In addition to the Designated Operator program, the LHMA also has a Designated Captain program. That’s right, you can hire your very own Coast Guard-certified captain! Even if you don’t plan to drink, but would rather relax and let someone else do the driving, a Designated Captain is the perfect solution. For more information, contact the Designated Captain Program Coordinator, U.S. Coast Guard Captain, Dale Bowers at 928-486-5782.
Stay Afloat
Life vests come in all types and sizes – there are even doggy life jackets available. With so many options available, it can be confusing to choose a personal flotation device and to also know when and where they are required. What are the actual laws concerning life vests? According to the Arizona Game and Fish Department website at www.azgfd.gov:
- Children 12 and under must wear life vests at all times when aboard a boat.
- There must be a flotation device available for each person on board. All vessels except sailboards and certain racing shells or rowing sculls must have at least one wearable Type I, II, III or V life jacket that is U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved and of the proper size for each person on board.
- People riding PWCs (personal watercraft) or being towed behind a boat must also wear life jackets.
A Breath of Fresh Air
Carbon monoxide poisoning is also known as the ‘silent killer’. It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is very toxic even in small quantities. It is produced when a carbon fuel, such as gasoline or diesel is burned. Carbon monoxide from exhaust pipes of inboard engines, outboard engines and generators may build up inside and outside the boat in areas near exhaust vents, especially in the water under swim platforms.
Avoid swimming near the back of the boat when the boat is idling or has been idling in the last 15 minutes, and do not idle the boat for prolonged periods of time. Make sure that you are more than 20 feet of a moving watercraft when riding a towable, skiing, or wakeboarding. If your boat has an enclosed area, make sure it is properly vented and has plenty of fresh airflow.
Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include irritated eyes, headache, confusion, nausea, weakness, and dizziness. Be aware of these symptoms, as some of them may be confused with seasickness. If any of these symptoms are observed, IMMEDIATELY move the person to fresh air, investigate the cause, and take corrective action. Seek medical attention, if necessary.
Sun Sense
You’ve heard it before, but it bears repeating. The bright sunny days here in Lake Havasu City are perfect for boating, but if you don’t protect yourself you may end up sunburned or dehydrated. Make sure to use sunscreen and drink plenty of water so you can keep having fun!
For ideas on summer activities and boat and recreational rentals, visit GoLakeHavasu.com.
The Lake Havasu City Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is an independent non-profit agency devoted to promoting our city. The CVB is funded primarily by hotel and restaurant taxes. If you have news about things to do and see in Lake Havasu City, contact the CVB at 928-453-3444. We welcome input from the community and our visitors alike.
By Michelle Gardia
Director of Communications
Lake Havasu City Convention & Visitors Bureau (LHCCVB)